What we do

We respond to psychological trauma and distress by providing training in EMDR and traumatology to qualified mental health workers in the countries affected. We then provide on-going support through supervision of their work and continuing professional development.

Harrowing stories of people caught up in war, conflict and natural disasters are sadly so often in the headlines. The immediate response is often focused on treating the physical wounds and meeting basic needs for food and shelter.

The psychological wounds frequently remain untreated and can result in nightmares, intrusive images, high anxiety, a sense of shame, depression – all common symptoms of PTSD (Post Traumatic Stress Disorder). Shattered lives from traumatic events impact on individuals, their families, communities and entire populations over generations.

It is common that the kind of events which trigger psychological trauma occur in countries where the existing mental health infrastructure is either non-existent or has been destroyed.

EMDR has been recognized internationally as an effective treatment for Post-Traumatic Disorder (PTSD) including the National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence (NICE 2005) in the UK, the American Psychological Association (APA) and more recently by the World Health Organisation (WHO 2013).

Trauma Aid UK is a registered charity set up to provide training in traumatology and EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing) to local mental health professions in countries affected by trauma through war, natural disasters and other mass traumatic experiences.

We work in partnership with mental health professionals in countries affected by trauma. We aim to build a body of qualified and experienced professionals who can not only provide EMDR treatment, but in turn train others to become proficient in the use of EMDR to treat the devastating symptoms of trauma.

When the war is over (Therapy Today, 2013) is an article by Sian Morgan, Trauma Aid UK’s President, setting out Trauma Aid UK’s philosophy of supporting work with traumatised communities worldwide.